NGAP Hails Philippine Open’s Million-Dollar Milestone

Manila, Philippines: The National Golf Association of the Philippines (NGAP) has hailed the move to elevate the status of the Philippine Open by breaking the US$1 million prize-money barrier for the first time in its storied history.

With the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) acting as presenting partner, the 2026 edition of the region’s oldest national Open will be staged over the Masters Course at Manila Southwoods Golf & Country Club from November 12-15.

It’s the first time that the tournament, which was inaugurated in 1913, has reached the US$1 million mark in prize money, double the purse on offer last year when Frenchman Julien Sale earned his maiden Tour win. It will also be the most lucrative sports event in the country this year.

For PSC, the announcement represents an important extension of its relationship with the NGAP and the Asian Tour.

Al Panlilio, President of NGAP, said: “Breaking the US$1 million mark is a landmark moment for the Philippine Open and a powerful statement about the growth and potential of golf in the Philippines.

“With the support of the Philippine Sports Commission, the Asian Tour and Manila Southwoods, we are giving our players a bigger stage while showcasing the Philippines as a world-class golf and sports destination. NGAP is proud to help take the Philippine Open to this next level.”

Patrick Gregorio, Chairman, PSC, said: “Sports is a key to unlocking the Philippines’ potential for golf tourism. Our people, our athletes, and our destinations are ready to host events of this level.

“Through partnerships with NGAP and the Asian Tour, we want to continue raising the bar – creating greater opportunities for athlete development, destination development, and ultimately for Philippine sports and tourism.”

The Philippine Open returned to the Asian Tour in 2025 following a hiatus of 10 years.

Cho Minn Thant, Commissioner & CEO, Asian Tour, said: “We welcomed back the Philippine Open with open arms at the start of last year, and we are excited to see it back this year in such a prominent position. It’s an event of huge importance to us, as is our relationship with the NGAP.

“The tournament is a natural fit for the ambitions of the Philippine Sports Commission, and along with Manila Southwoods Golf & Country Club, we are grateful for their backing and enthusiasm.”

This year will mark the sixth time that Manila Southwoods has staged the event having previously acted as host in 1993, 1994, 1996, 1999 and 2025.

Manila Southwoods has also been the venue for the World Amateur Team Championships, the Nomura Cup and the Queen Sirikit Cup.

Bob Sobrepena, President, Manila Southwoods Golf & Country Club, said: “We are pleased to host the 2026 Philippine Open and be a part of the Asian Tour. Our club has always supported both amateur and professional golf and there is no event larger than the Philippine Open which will showcase the best of Philippine golf.

“We thank the National Golf Association of the Philippines and the Asian Tour for holding this prestigious event at our club.”